Tour Overview

Discover the hidden gem of Moshi on our Rau Forest and Rice Field Tour, a unique eco-experience that combines rich biodiversity, cultural heritage, and community connection. Just a short drive from the town center, Rau Forest is one of the last remaining natural lowland forests in the Kilimanjaro region—home to ancient trees, colorful birds, playful monkeys, and sacred fig trees known locally as “Mkomazi.”

As we wander along forest trails shaded by towering trees, you'll learn about indigenous plants and their traditional uses from our knowledgeable local guide. The adventure continues through the vibrant rice paddies, where you’ll meet local farmers, discover traditional irrigation methods, and witness daily rural life in action.

Whether you’re a nature lover, photographer, or cultural explorer, this tour offers a peaceful yet engaging way to experience Tanzania’s natural beauty and local traditions. Join us for a half-day journey that’s as enriching as it is refreshing.

Tour Plan

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Rau Forest and Rice Field Tour

Your journey begins with a convenient pick-up from your hotel or meeting point in Moshi town. After a short briefing, we’ll drive to the nearby Rau Forest, a peaceful and ecologically rich area on the outskirts of Moshi. Upon arrival, you’ll register at the community conservation office and receive an introduction to the forest’s unique biodiversity and the local efforts to protect it.

The experience continues with a guided nature walk through the forest, where you’ll be immersed in lush greenery and the sounds of the wild. Along the trail, your guide will introduce you to indigenous trees, traditional medicinal plants, and the fascinating wildlife, including colobus and vervet monkeys, as well as a variety of bird species. A key highlight is the sacred Mkomazi fig tree, a spiritual site for the local Chagga community, where you’ll hear stories and legends that bring the forest’s cultural significance to life.

After exploring the forest, the tour continues with a walk or optional bicycle ride through scenic village paths toward the expansive Rau rice fields. Here, you'll witness the daily life of local farmers and learn about traditional rice-growing techniques and irrigation systems that have sustained the community for generations. Depending on the season, you may even have the chance to join in planting or harvesting rice, offering a hands-on cultural experience.

A relaxing break follows near the rice paddies, where you’ll enjoy fresh seasonal fruits and a refreshing drink such as sugarcane juice or coconut water. This peaceful setting offers the perfect moment to unwind, connect with your surroundings, and ask any questions you may have.

After this enriching journey through nature and culture, you’ll be driven back to Moshi and dropped off at your hotel or preferred location, with a heart full of memories and a deeper appreciation for Tanzania’s natural and rural heritage